Hlavacek to Defend Belt against Clarke

With the introduction of World Boxing Council title fights to New York Muay Thai, two incredible fighters are prepared to demonstrate what it means to them to earn that belt.

Elijah Clarke and Brett Hlavacek are set to battle it out on August 14th when Friday Night Fights Muay Thai returns to the Skylight Modern in Manhattan. Hlavacek will be defending his WBC belt for the first time since earning it last summer.

“WBC title is one of the most recognized titles in boxing and now Muay Thai,” said Hlavacek. “It was only a matter of time that it would be in New York, and it makes perfect sense for them to be working with Friday Night Fights.”

“This means a lot to be part of the introduction of the WBC to New York City Muay Thai,” said Clarke. “I think the WBC title is a very prestigious title to have. And for it to be in the heart of New York City? It is a great step for New York Muay Thai.”

Hlavacek said it was a personal goal of his to win a WBC belt. He met this goal June 14, 2014 in a decision win over Cyrus Washington. “Now, I get to defend the belt in NYC. It means a lot to me,” he said. “This is my first title defense and I don’t plan on losing it anytime soon.”

Both fighters are training rigorously for this event, which will be sanctioned by the WKA.

“I’m preparing for this fight by strengthening my weak points, and tightening up my strong points. One of my strong points is being able to adjust quickly,” Clarke said. He is also well-known for his powerful kicks.

“Clarke is a solid, all-around fighter, who is taller than me,” said Hlavacek. “For this fight, I will be working with taller guys, working on controlling the range.

“I believe, as a fighter, I’m a good counter fighter. I like to keep the fight technical, using all of my weapons. It will be nice to have a full training camp with plenty of time to prepare.”

Clarke described Hlavacek as a very skillful and tricky fighter. “I have a lot of respect for him,” he said. “All in all, I’m trying to put it all together for this fight, and I’m really looking forward to putting on a show for the fans.”

Hlavacek had words for his opponent as well as his fans. “I’d just like to wish him ‘good luck’,” he said. “I can’t wait to put on a great show in August.”